GNU Octave
Free numerical computing language compatible with many MATLAB scripts
- #7 of 10 in best math and graphing software
- Free and open source
- Free to use
- Open source
- LinuxmacOSWindows
Ranked 7 of 10 in best math and graphing software
Free software for numerical computing that runs many MATLAB scripts with little change, on Linux, macOS and Windows. It has fewer toolboxes than MATLAB and suits numerical work more than graphing.
Best for Free MATLAB-style numerical computing
About GNU Octave
Octave provides matrix operations, plotting and scripting in a MATLAB-like syntax, so many MATLAB scripts run with little change. Its plotting tools cover 2D and 3D graphics.
The project is free software, and its site has donate and support links. It suits engineers and students who want a free MATLAB-style environment. It is less complete than MATLAB, with a smaller set of toolboxes.
Strengths
- Free software under GPL-3.0
- Runs on Linux, macOS and Windows
- Many MATLAB scripts run with little change
Limits
- Smaller toolbox set than MATLAB
Where GNU Octave ranks
How GNU Octave compares
| Product | Score | Price | Platforms | Main use | Where it runs | Scripting or programming |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#5 SageMath | 84.0 | Free and open source | LinuxmacOS | Algebra and number theory | Linux and macOS | Yes |
#6 MATLAB | 82.0 | Paid | WindowsmacOSLinux | Numerical computing and engineering | Windows, macOS and Linux | Yes |
| #7GNU Octave | 81.0 | Free and open source | LinuxmacOSWindows | Numerical computing | Linux, macOS and Windows | Yes |
#8 Scilab | 79.0 | Free and open source | WindowsLinuxmacOS | Numerical computation | Windows, Linux, macOS | Yes |
#9 Photomath | 76.0 | Free plan, paid upgrades | iOSAndroid | Homework solver | iOS and Android | No |
The full comparison table for best math and graphing software has all 10 products.
Alternatives to GNU Octave
All 9 alternatives
DesmosAlso runs on Web, iOS, Android.- GeoGebraAlso runs on Web, iOS, Android.
MathematicaTechnical computing system from Wolfram built on the Wolfram Language
Wolfram|AlphaAlso runs on Web, iOS, Android.- SageMathFree open-source system for algebra, calculus and number theory
- MATLABCommercial numerical computing environment for engineers and scientists
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Questions about GNU Octave
- Is GNU Octave free?
- GNU Octave can be used without paying: Free software under GPL-3.0; donations accepted. Check the vendor’s pricing page for current limits.
- Is GNU Octave open source?
- Yes. GNU Octave publishes its source code under the GPL-3.0 license.
- Which platforms does GNU Octave support?
- GNU Octave is available on: Linux, macOS, Windows.
- What is GNU Octave best for?
- Free MATLAB-style numerical computing. In our ranking of math and graphing software it is number 7 of 10 with a score of 81.0.
- What are the best alternatives to GNU Octave?
- The highest-ranked alternatives on listme.name are Desmos, GeoGebra, Mathematica, Wolfram|Alpha.
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